As part of their journey to a new forever home, every cat and dog that arrives at Ferne will be spayed or neutered unless our vets recommend against this for medical reasons. The only exception is if the dog or cat is too young. In which case, the new adoptee must ensure that the animal is neutered within the timescale expressed.

This procedure is so essential to try and reduce the number of unwanted and abandoned animals arriving at Ferne and other rescues every single day!

As well as trying to stem the relentless tide of animals in need, there are also numerous other benefits too…

• Females won’t come into season

• Prevents the risk of testicular cancer in males and uterus infections and cancers in females.

• Reduces urine marking and roaming in male dogs and cats. Which also reduces the likelihood of road accidents and injuries

• Stops birth defects - animals don't respect family relationships and siblings will mate. This increases the risk of offspring with birth defects and deformities.

• Prevents animals being stolen for breeding.

• Avoids the potential of expensive vet bills – both the cost for problems experienced during or after pregnancy and birth and the costs if any treatment needed for the litter.

• Prevents overpopulation which increases the spread of infectious and stress related diseases.

Knowing that the cat population is already at crisis point and that one unneutered female cat can be responsible for 20,000 offspring in just five years. Really brings home just how important this is.

In 2024 the cost to Ferne of neutering dogs and cats was over £12,500! As one of our amazing supporters you will know that 2024 was the most difficult year that Ferne has ever experienced.

We know we need to continue to meet the needs of unwanted animals but with funds still so stretched we really need your help.

Should we be lucky enough to exceed our campaign target, any excess funds will go towards other veterinary expenses for the sanctuary